Digital On-Load Tap Changer With Optical Fiber Signal Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing on-load tap changers rely on analog means for adjusting transformer turn ratios, which are less precise and functional, and do not effectively monitor or control transformer statuses, leading to potential safety issues and inefficient maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A digital on-load tap changer system that includes an actuator for adjusting transformer turn ratios, a processing unit for controlling the actuator and communicating with a control device via digital signals, and sensors for monitoring statuses, enabling precise control and estimation of contact wear, while using optical fibers for isolated signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If analog means are used to adjust turn ratio and indicate current selection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and functionality are weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces analog mechanical indication systems with digital electronic systems. The processing unit receives digital signals from sensors that detect the actual turn ratio position, processes this information digitally, and outputs precise digital indications. This substitution of mechanical/analog systems with digital electronic systems resolves the contradiction by providing high measurement precision while maintaining manageable device complexity through integrated digital processing.
2Reliability
If sensors and digital processing are added to monitor transformer status, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor transformer operating parameters (such as turn ratio position, current, temperature) and transmit this information to the processing unit. The processing unit analyzes the feedback signals and can adjust control commands accordingly, or alert operators to abnormal conditions. This feedback loop significantly improves operational reliability by enabling real-time monitoring and proactive response to potential issues, while the integrated digital processing keeps the added complexity manageable.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If optical fibers are used for signal transmission, then the immunity to interference is improved, but the ease of manufacture is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electrical signal transmission cables with optical fiber cables for communication between the transformer monitoring system and external control devices. Optical fibers transmit signals as light rather than electrical currents, providing complete immunity to electromagnetic interference that plagues electrical cables in high-voltage transformer environments. While optical fiber installation requires specialized techniques, the improved signal reliability and interference immunity justify the additional manufacturing and installation complexity, particularly in the electrically noisy transformer environment.
Data Source
AI summary
An on-load tap changer that includes an actuator configured to adjust a turn ratio of the transformer, and a processing unit configured to control the actuator and to communicate with a control device via a digital signal connection. The processing unit is further configured to receive a status detected by a sensor. A method of manufacturing the on-load tap changer is also disclosed. Embodiments according to the present disclosure provide a digitalized on-load tap changer that allows various statuses to be monitored or controlled, by which various advantages can be achieved. For example, the life of a contact of the transformer can be predicted. Other data can be used to determine whether it is safe to adjust the contact of the transformer. Moreover, the optical fibers between the on-load tap changer and an external device enable an isolated transmission of control and data signals that almost eliminates interferences.